-
He called for improved partnerships between national and county governments.
-
Mudavadi explained that counties bear vast potential and opportunities that remain untapped, which could be a game-changer if exploited.
Image: PCS
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has urged Kenyans to stop lamenting and instead put in more effort towards a wealthier and economically stable nation.
Mudavadi said Kenyans have no one else but themselves to turn around the country’s economic fortunes.
"We must stop crying and work ourselves out of poverty. There is no time for lamentations. The focus should be on work and we have to sweat for us to achieve what we envisage as a people," Mudavadi said.
Mudavadi was speaking during the inaugural Kakamega International Investment Conference at the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology.
He called for improved partnerships between national and county governments.
Mudavadi explained that counties bear vast potential and opportunities that remain untapped, which could be a game-changer if exploited.
“Counties should take advantage of the trade and investment opportunities that the government has negotiated through bilateral agreements, including but not limited to the European Union, the United Kingdom and other nations that we are negotiating with at the regional and global level,” he said.
He re-affirmed the government’s dedication to supporting counties saying President William Ruto’s administration fully supports devolution.
Similarly, Mudavadi challenged counties to focus on unique opportunities that lie at their disposal and explore ventures that will help open new frontiers for investment, development and job creation.
“Kenya is a champion of Africa’s integration through the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, and counties should be at the forefront in supporting the national government in utilising the opportunities that are being presented through such trade agreements,” Mudavadi said.
He lauded Kakamega leadership under Governor Fernandes Barasa and the Kakamega County Investment and Development Agency, for organising the conference that has attracted local and international investors, venture capitalists, corporations, development partners among other entities.
He said the conference has created opportunities for connections and ignited partnerships that will help move the county’s development to the next level.
“This is a landmark event, bringing together over 2,000 delegates, more than 300 exhibitors, sponsors and speakers from across the region and the world,” Mudavadi said.
“The moment is here for Kakamega to showcase opportunities it can offer in sectors where it enjoys a competitive advantage, particularly in agriculture and value addition, healthcare, social development and natural resources, environment and climate change."